Updated June 14, 2026 — result final. Justin Gaethje defeats Ilia Topuria by TKO (corner stoppage), R4, 5:00.
The Result
Justin Gaethje is the undisputed UFC lightweight champion. Entering as a 6-to-1 underdog, Gaethje defeated Ilia Topuria (17-0) by TKO (corner stoppage) at the end of Round 4 in the main event of UFC Freedom 250 at the White House South Lawn — one of the biggest upsets in UFC history.
Gaethje
Winner
TKO R4
Method
5:00
Time
+430
Gaethje Odds
How It Played Out
The fight started exactly as advertised — a violent first round where Topuria landed heavy shots but Gaethje turned it into the brawl he needed. Topuria’s right eye was bloodied by the end of R1.
Round 2 swung toward Topuria. He ripped shots to the body and eventually put Gaethje on the canvas, then hunted for a submission finish. Gaethje defended and survived.
Round 3 turned the fight. Gaethje landed a clean right hand that dropped Topuria, swarmed for a finish, and when Topuria survived, continued to batter his face. Heading into Round 4 it was clear Topuria’s damage was severe.
The doctor evaluated Topuria before Round 4. He was cleared to continue — but it wouldn’t last much longer.
Gaethje controlled the fourth, continuing to add punishment to an already-swollen face. When Topuria returned to his corner after Round 4, the bout was stopped. Topuria did not answer the bell for Round 5. His professional record falls to 17-1.
The Full Stat Breakdown
Full post-fight statistics — significant strikes landed, accuracy, takedown attempts, control time, and Damage Index scores — will be published shortly. Check the Topuria vs. Gaethje stats page for the complete numbers breakdown.
UFC Freedom 250 aired June 14, 2026 on Paramount+. All statistics sourced from official UFC records.